Are there any real side effects if I take prescription acne medicine?

As with any medicine that you take, there is a potential for side effects. The severity of the side effects will depend on your physical health and the reaction of the medicine in your body.  There are also some medications that have numerous and severe side effects.

The most common type of pimple medicine falls under the antibiotic category.  There are many types of antibiotics that are offered.  If you have problems, you can try a different type.  The antibiotic works by attacking bacteria under the skin and clearing up the problem at the root.  The most common side effects include reducing the effects of birth control and causing staining of the teeth in younger patients.  One medicine that usually works very well is Accutane.  The potential side effects are severe in many cases.  You should fully understand the risks before taking this medicine.

There are other types of medicines that do not require a pill.  This type of pimple medicine includes prescription skin care products.  These creams, lotions, and solutions have a stronger concentration of medicine and require a prescription.  Usually there is some redness or drying of the skin.  You should check with your doctor for other potential side effects. 

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